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Follow-through key to Lincecum's smooth session

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SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Giants right-hander Tim Lincecum declared himself "ahead of where I was last year" after throwing a 10-minute bullpen session during Wednesday's opening workout for pitchers and catchers.

Lincecum began feeling out of sync early last Spring Training, due largely to his physical condition.

"Last year, coming into it, I was trying to lose the weight from the prior year," Lincecum said. "This year, I feel like I'm strong on my legs again."

Mechanically, Lincecum felt like anything but the starter who struggled to a 10-15 record and a 5.18 ERA last year.

"I felt like my front leg was actually stabilizing my motion when it comes to an end," said the two-time National League Cy Young Award winner, who threw only fastballs and changeups. "I'm actually following through instead of falling out of it or wheeling off. My follow-through is a lot better and on target."

By sheer coincidence, Lincecum found himself throwing to catcher Buster Posey, who was rarely paired with the righty last season; the two have been rumored to be at odds. After Lincecum finished throwing, he and Posey met for the customary pitcher-catcher handshake. They spoke briefly, with Lincecum gesticulating as he mimicked a couple of throwing motions. As they parted, Lincecum patted Posey on his lower back with his left hand.

Manager Bruce Bochy insisted that Lincecum and Posey weren't ordered to work together. Echoed Lincecum, "There was no plan. I just kind of walked over and he was the only one left." Lincecum noted that throwing to Posey "kind of makes you feel like you're in a game-type atmosphere."